“For me personally, it’s really exciting. You want to test yourself against these guys and see where you’re at.”

On the Ford/Farrell combination, he added: “They’re both really special players. I think Farrell really helps Ford; Ford is a really talented and special player but Farrell outside him really makes him tick.

“He takes a lot of pressure off, they’re both fantastic at taking the ball to the line and drawing people onto them and then putting other people through.

“In the past some of our coaches have spoken to Sarries (Saracens) coaches and been to training with them, and I have picked up lots of little drills that Owen does after training to try and help my game.

George Ford and Owen Farrell have developed a strong partnership in midfield

“He’s a really special player and I’m excited to have a crack against him.”

Scotland’s unfavourable record against England is something that has played on the minds of the players since the France game, particularly after the 61-21 thrashing at Twickenham last year, and Horne is aware of the daunting challenge the number two ranked side in the world pose.

He is hoping they can use the recent barren run as motivation come Saturday.

The Glasgow playmaker said: “No one likes getting beaten, especially year on year so if anything it just fuels our fire.

“We’re desperate to turn it around and get a good win for us and for the country.

“We understand it will be a massive challenge. There’s a reason they have beaten us 10 years in a row – they are a fantastic side, but it’s a challenge we cant wait to get stuck in to.”